A mobile lending library catering to residents of West Mambalam, Kodambakkam and a few localities in Vadapalani for nearly six decades is testimony that physical books still charm seekers of knowledge.
V. Ranganathan (79), who runs ‘Thayumanavar Padipagam,’ begins to circulate magazines to his customers at 6.30 a.m. and is back home by noon. In a day, he distributes books to least 125 houses, catering to nearly 200 members — this has earned him the sobriquet ‘Library Mama.’
Ranganathan says Tamil magazines are the most sought-after among his customers. The monthly subscription charges for the books ranges from Rs.200 to 350. For instance, he charges Rs.200 for three old books, Rs. 250 for one new and two old books and Rs.350 for three new books. The subscriber must return the magazine within two days..
On alternate days, starting from Monday, he rides a tricycle, loaded with magazines, around Mambalam and Kodambakkam and for ‘home delivery’. On Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, parts of Vadapalani and other places are covered.
From the subscription rate of 25 paise per month, the amount was increased to Rs. 5 in 1975. Earlier, Ranganathan used to go on foot to several houses in West Mambalam. Seeing his sincerity and toil, one of his customers helped him get a loan of Rs.1,500 to buy a tricycle four decades ago. He continues to use it.
Srinivasa Raghavan, son of the founder, who took charge in 2007, says, Due to internet and e-books, there is a marginal decline in the membership. However, women and senior citizens, who form the major chunk of patrons of the library, are not willing to give up their reading of physical books.”
Ranganathan’s family used to keep stock of old magazines for years. However, due to lack of space, the family has disposed of several books, giving them to libraries and also donating some to poor children. Ranganathan wants to unemployed people by way of teaching the nuances of the business-cum-service. He can be contacted at 9442587056.
